The study “Distribution System Operators 2030 – Tasks I Challenges I Strategies” was presented for the first time to the public at today’s regulatory conference of AK REGTP. The study focuses on the distribution system operators, their position and how their tasks and their approach will change as we move towards 2030. The study concludes that the distribution system operators play an indispensable role in the energy transition and will continue to do so even in 2030. The study puts forward four key statements and five demands.

Today, BBHC and BBH presented the study “Distribution System Operators 2030 – Tasks I Challenges I Strategies” for the first time to the public. It combines theoretical explanations with empirical findings. Comprehensive answers of over 200 distribution system operators regarding their practice and expectations for the future were evaluated for the purpose of the study.

The findings can be summarised into four key statements:

1. Distribution system operators are indispensable players of the energy transition. They ensure the integration of decentralised installations.
2. Based on their experience with several types of utilities and CHP installations, distribution system operators are experts for sector integration.
3. The size of the distribution system operator is not decisive, as services may also be provided through cooperations or bought-in services.
4. Distribution system operators assume their share of responsibility for the system – their system services will become more important as the energy transition progresses.

Thus, the study contradicts the narrative according to which being larger and more centralised is better: Decentralised solutions are more suitable for decentralised energy generation – and the decentralised market players like distribution system operators also consider themselves capable of shouldering the increased burden facing them. In particular, distribution system operators are needed in order to facilitate sector integration, a technology which is key to ensuring the success of the next stage of the energy transition.

The unique opportunity that Germany currently has in terms of achieving a successful energy transition must not be jeopardised by taking the distribution system operators for granted and by focusing the political and social debate primarily on the expansion of the transmission systems. From this study, the following five demands can be derived, which, when implemented, can ensure that distribution system operators will be able to fulfil their increased responsibilities also in the future:

1. To carry out their tasks, distribution system operators need appropriate tools and data (like the transmission system operators).
2. Where necessary, distribution system operators pass their data on to third parties and interfaces.
3. The grid charges system must not set incentives which are likely to be detrimental in the long term.
4. Unbundling requirements should not deter innovation.
5. Distribution system operators must remain free to choose the means for completing their tasks: cooperations and the like should not be treated less favourably.

Becker Büttner Held, Rechtsanwälte, Wirtschaftsprüfer, Steuerberater is a leading provider of advisory services for energy and infrastructure companies and their customers. Energy and supply companies, particularly public utilities, municipalities and local authorities, industrial companies and international groups are among its core clients.

With over 50 consultants specialising in energy industry matters, Becker Büttner Held Consulting AG is a leading provider of consultancy services for companies in the energy and infrastructure sector. BBHC has a particular focus on the industry and municipal sector.

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Visit BBHC online at www.bbh-beratung.de.